Universities warned to curb 'spiralling' grade inflation
Universities have been warned to curb their “spiraling” grade inflation, as the regulator’s analysis reveals a surge in first class degrees.
The Office for Students (OfS) has threatened institutions with sanctions, including fines or even de-registration, if they fail to take action over the issue.
A major analysis of degrees awarded by 148 universities shows that the percentage of first class degrees has increased from 16 to 27 per cent over the past six years.
Meanwhile, the percentage of first and upper second class degrees awarded has increased from 67 to 78 per cent over the same period.
The research, published on Wednesday by the OfS, shows that students who left school last year with CCD or below at A-level were almost three times more likely to graduate with first class honours than they were in 2010-11.